Music Lessons in American Canyon, CA

Instruments: Flute

I do not believe in a uniform approach for each person. Being in the right environment means everything for someone who is about to begin learning an instrument, be it his or her first encounter or not. This will manifest differently for each person. First impressions do mean everything in this case and that is why I am proud to say that anyone who has ever formally or informally attempted to find their embouchure with me or in front of me succeeded to find their voice. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

My biggest hope for my students is that they come away from lessons with a love for music. Every student is a unique player with their own pace, set of hurdles, focus, and interests, and I am committed to tailoring my teaching approach to each individual student. It is important to me that each student progresses at a realistic pace for themselves, tries their best, and has fun with the music they are learning. Read More

Instruments: Guitar

I've been fascinated with the guitar since I was about 10 years old, having been influenced by all the great rock guitar gods of the sixties and seventies. As I got into high school I became interested in jazz, and started to study jazz guitar. I enjoy many styles of music. I like music that is very passionate and moves and grooves you in various ways. I'm very creative and innovative. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice

I have taught guitar throughout my career, working with beginners through advanced students, teaching both finger-style and flatpick techniques as well as why the chords fit together (music theory). I like to teach lessons that move step-by-step, with each lesson building on the one before, so that the student can see the improvement as they move ahead. I recently published the guitar instruction manual "Sounding Good on One Guitar". In college my singing won scholarships and awards where I helped singers develop character for their roles in opera productions. Read More

Instruments: Piano Flute Piccolo

For beginning students, I place a large emphasis on the fundamentals i.e. scales, chord progressions etc. I also start them on solo pieces and like them to choose the pieces they are working on. I believe that if they choose their repertoire then they will have greater love and enthusiasm for the music. I also encourage them to push beyond what they think they can do. I work hard to match my teaching style to the needs of each and every student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Saxophone Flute

Jack has played professionally since 1975. (Soprano, alto, tenor, baritone saxophones + flute). Influences include: Dexter Gordon, Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Viola Saxophone Flute Clarinet

I love seeing my students grow in their knowledge and appreciation of music! Excellence is rewarding, and I teach the process to get there from whatever level we begin. I use positive reinforcement and notice what the student is doing right. Then, I give critique and an action plan to improve performance. It feels good for the student and teacher when they learn the methods to break down what is currently difficult into smaller pieces so that it is both manageable and possible to go further than they thought. Read More